Always have a positive,
strong opening statement about the strengths or Unique
Selling Proposition of your product, service or idea.
Be specific and concise.
Always have examples/facts/research to
illustrate the benefits of your 'A' points.
Always consider the impression you personally
wish to create.
Always try to articulate the market need
with your business idea. Don't be arrogant in defending
your position, idea or product.
Don't look bored or impatient with questions.
Don't put the questioner down even if
the question shows abysmal ignorance.
Don't imply that the questioner has no
business asking you about details, facts or issues relevant
to the business idea, proposition, service or product.
If the question is straightforward,
begin your reply with the most important point you want
to make on the subject.
If you are answering questions as a result of a short 'presentation'
or you are being interviewed by any section of the media as a result
of a proposal or submission, your survival could depend on the following
six rules:
1. Be prepared
Even at short notice - or no notice at all - you have
to have accurate facts at your fingertips.
2. Have conviction
Express you opinions or explain your message or idea with
enthusiasm. If you don't sound convinced/committed why
should anyone else be?
3. Be specific
Vague answers suggest that you are hedging or that you
are unable to back up your arguments, facts or market
research. Keep your answers short.
4. Be anecdotal
Examples help to dramatise your points so that the interview
panel/audience will remember it. Using anecdotes or anecdotal
evidence also makes a response more conversational. It
need not be clever but should simply illustrate the point.
5. Be accurate
All of the above are useless if you are not providing
accurate information or you have mixed up your facts and
figures or you don't understand the market or the competition.
6. Be Human
Keep your sense of humour, give a reasoned response and
be honest.
1. The more positive
and at ease you are the better the perception.
2. Wear clothes that make you feel good,
but also show that you 'care' about yourself and make
the right impression. Professional business attire will
offend nobody.
3. Start with a firm handshake and smile.
Maintain eye contact with the interviewer/audience. Speak
up clearly and slowly. Don't rush to get everything said.
Extend your personality but don't 'perform'.
4. If the interview is serious, be serious,
if friendly be friendly - above all, be sincere, be yourself
and enjoy yourself.
5. Don't fidget, touch your clothes or
face. Use relaxed leisurely gestures - rather than wave
your arms around dramatically. Sit back and upright in
your chair. Don't wedge yourself in behind a table.
6. Don't lean drape or prop yourself
up on the furniture.
7. Look off to the side to think - not
up or down. Keep your head up. Give a short concise reply
- not one-word answers. (Remember to use visual examples).
8. Don't use pompous language and jargon.
Be certain of your facts.
9. If you don't know an answer say so
- don't lie or dissemble - it will show on your face.
10. Remember people respond more positively
to those who display a high energy level but also appear
authentic.
Our logo, the thistle, is a hardy composite plant that grows in most parts of the world and indicates fertile soil. Our aim is to empower and inspire others to accept individual
responsibility, and to encourage leadership in their roles. June MacDonald Communications is a business subsidary of Thistleberry Pty Ltd.
